It can be scary being seen sometimes.
This week, someone close to me shared a story that got to me.
She received a gift from someone thoughtful, someone who truly sees her.
It wasn’t just a gift—it solved a problem she’s quietly been battling for a year. Which has been beating her. The kind of problem you might bury deep—or try to—because it feels far harder to carry than confront it.
At first, she felt overwhelmed about receiving this helpful gift. Confronted. Cross.
It was like someone had shone a light on something she’d worked so hard to keep hidden. But was seen anyway. Maybe there was a little shame mixed in (although that would be misplaced).
➜ It was pretty hard to see such discomfort playing out.
➜ Until she moved through it all to try out the gift.
➜ Then—relief. This gift changes a lot.
This thoughtful gesture brought up uncomfortable truths but also gave her a solution she wouldn’t have leaned into on her own—or perhaps even realized she needed.
And it really made me think. Sometimes, we need to be seen.
Hiding in Camouflage vs. The Power of Being Seen
How many of us suffer in work that leaves us feeling invisible?
➜ Hiding struggles, even from ourselves, because being seen—truly noticed—feels too confronting.
In camouflage, we blend in. We roll with the demands of a role that no longer feels aligned. We know we’re not valued, but…well, that’s not ever so visible, because we aren’t either.
But being visible—allowing ourselves to be seen—noticed, understood, valued, and appreciated for all that we bring and need? That really can change a lot.
The Psychology of Visibility and Its Impact
Psychologists often discuss the tension between our need to belong and our fear of being truly seen. Being seen can feel vulnerable because it means opening ourselves up to potential judgment—but it’s also the gateway to deeper connection and alignment.
In a career context, I see invisibility—whether self-imposed or imposed by the culture—as a common response to misalignment. We stay quiet, avoid confrontation, or accept the status quo, even when it’s uncomfortable. Why? Because staying hidden feels safer than stepping into the spotlight.
But here’s the thing: visibility is where transformation begins. When we allow ourselves to be seen, we give others the chance to understand us and respond to our needs. And in turn, we start recognising – and honouring – those needs ourselves.
Questions About Becoming Uninvisible In Your Career
Do you feel noticed, valued, and appreciated at work—or are you well-camouflaged in your career?
If the answer feels uncomfortable, consider this:
➜ What would it look like to let yourself be seen?
➜ What would have to happen for you to speak up about what you need?
➜ To step out of camouflage and be noticed and appreciated for all that you bring?
Transformation begins with visibility. It can be scary, yes. But like my friend’s story, being seen could also bring the solution you didn’t even realise you needed.